NCLEX-RN vs NCLEX-PN: What’s the Difference?

In order to become a licensed nurse, students must take and pass the licensing test. Whether you’re aiming to become a Registered Nurse in New York or an Licensed Practical Nurse in New Jersey, the licensing exam you take will be the deciding factor of your credentials. If you’re aiming to become a Registered Nurse, you’ll take the NCLEX-RN. If your goal is to become an LPN, you’ll take the NCLEX-PN. Both exams assess your competency to provide effective and safe care, but they significantly differ in scope and content. In this blog we’ll explore the key differences between the NCLEX-RN vs NCLEX-PN.

NCLEX-RN vs NCLEX-PN: What’s the Difference?

1. What is the NCLEX?

The NCLEX is a standardized licensing test developed by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and stands for the National Council Licensure Examination. Before diving into the specifics of each exam, it essential to understand the NCLEX itself. These tests are designed to ensure that nurses possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform safely and effectively in their role. The NCLEX adapts to each test taker making it unique for each student. The tests consist of multiple choice, fill in the blank, and drag and drop questions. Passing the NCLEX is required to practice nursing in the U.S. and Canada.

There are two versions:

NCLEX-RN: For those who aspire to become a Registered Nurse (RNs).

NCLEX-PN: For those who want to become a Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), also known in Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) in some states.

2. Educational Background: RN vs LPN

One major difference between the NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN is the education requirements needed to take the exams:

• Registered Nurse: In order to take the NCLEX-RN, you need an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs are more comprehensive, covering in-depth medical, theoretical, and clinical knowledge.
• Licensed Practical Nurse: Some LPN candidates take a one-year nursing program that’s typically offered at community colleges or technical schools. LPN programs focus more on foundational nursing skills and patient care basics than the deeper topics covered in RN programs.

3. NCLEX-RN vs NCLEX-PN Exam Content

Both NCLEX exams assess nursing skills but differ in scope and complexity. Below is a breakdown of each exam’s distribution of content:

• NCLEX-RN: The breakdown of distribution of content for the NCLEX-RN test plan is:
  • Management of Care (15% – 21%)
  • Safety and Infection Control (10% – 16%)
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance (6% – 12%)
  • Psychosocial Integrity (6% – 12%)
  • Basic Care and Comfort (6% – 12%)
  • Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies (13% – 19%)
  • Reduction of Risk Potential (9% – 15%)
  • Physiological Adaptation (11% – 17%)

• NCLEX-PN: The breakdown distribution of content for the NCLEX-PN test plan is:
  • Coordinated Care (18% – 24%)
  • Safety and Infection Control (10% – 16%)
  • Health Promotion and Maintenance (6% – 12%)
  • Psychosocial Integrity (9% – 15%)
  • Basic Care and Comfort (7% – 13%)
  • Pharmacological Therapies (10% – 16%)
  • Reduction of Risk Potential (9% – 15%)
  • Physiological Adaption (7% – 13%)

4. NCLEX-RN vs NCLEX-PN Exam Format

The structure of each exam varies slightly:

• NCLEX-RN:
  • Question Count: 75 – 145. The exam is curated towards the individual taking it. If the individual gets enough correct questions, the exam may end after 75 questions. On the other hand, if the exam feels like it needs more data from the test taker, the exam can continue up to 145 questions.
  • Time limit: 5 hours
  • Format: Questions on the exam are asked in multiple different formats. On the NCLEX-RN exam you’ll see multiple choice, fill in the blank, drag and drop, bowtie, hot spots, matrix, and cloze questions.

• NCLEX-PN
  • Question Count: 85 – 205 questions. Just as I mentioned earlier, since the exam is uniquely formed towards each test taker, the exam may end after 85 questions or may go up to 205 questions.
  • Time limit: 5 hours
  • Format: You’ll find the same question formats on both NCLEX exams. Questions may be asked in multiple choice, hot spots, fill in the blank, bowtie, drag and drop, and cloze questions.

Both exams use Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT), meaning the test adapts in real time based on your answers.

5. Scope of Practice: RN vs LPN

The scope of practice differs significantly between RNs and LPNs, affecting job responsibilities and career opportunities.

• Registered Nurses (RNs): RNs have a broader scope of practice and knowledge, allowing them to:
  • Assess patients needs and develop care plans
  • Administer advanced medications and treatments
  • Lead healthcare teams and oversee LPNs and nursing aides
  • Work in a wide range of settings, including hospitals, schools, clinics, and specialty departments

RNs are in high demand for nursing jobs in NJ and nursing jobs in NY, where healthcare facilities seek skilled nurses who can manage complex cases.

• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs): LPNs work under the supervision of RNs or doctors and are responsible for the following:
  • Basic patient care, including feeding, dressing, and hygiene
  • Taking and monitoring vital signs
  • Administering specific medications
  • Working in settings such as long term care, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities.

LPNs play a crucial role in patient care and are essential to the healthcare team.

6. Job Opportunities and Salary Expectations

There are numerous job opportunities for both LPNs and RNs, especially in states with high demand such as New Jersey and New York. However, since Registered Nurses are more advanced, they generally have a wider range of job opportunities and higher earning potential. This is due to their more rigorous educational background and higher degree of responsibility.

As for LPNs, although this is considered more of an entry-level position, you can still find steady and rewarding career opportunities. You’ll generally find LPNs working in schools, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the projected employment growth for LPNs is projected at a 5% increase. This projection rate is faster than average for other professions.

Final Thoughts

Both the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN open doors to rewarding careers in nursing. Understanding the differences between the exams and the outcomes can help you make an informed decision about your nursing career path. Whether you’re looking to fill nursing jobs in New York or nursing jobs in New Jersey, the right program and exam will equip you with skills and knowledge needed to succeed. If you’re looking to enter the healthcare field quickly, becoming an LPN would be the best path for you. A good thing to note is that you can always become an LPN first and go back to school to advance your career and become an RN. If you’re looking to advance in the healthcare field as quickly as possible, becoming an RN would be the best choice. Regardless of the nursing career path you choose, entering the healthcare field is an extremely rewarding job!